Student and Supervisor Qualitative Perspectives of the Benefits and Challenges of Longer‐Term Rural Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Placements

Results suggest that longer-term placements facilitate valuable rural community connections and foster trust between students and supervisors, leading to increased independent practice and, in some cases, reduced supervision workload. Both community connections and integration into healthcare teams are likely to foster place-based connections over the longer duration of placements, thereby positively contributing to rural workforce outcomes. Social, practical and financial challenges were noted, and as such, adequate supports are critical to positive longer-term placement experiences. Rural workforce policy should continue to promote longer-term health placement opportunities, including sufficient support for placement provider organisations and supervisors, to support rural workforce recruitment and retention.